Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers make World Café debut

San Francisco based sextet “Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers,” featuring Nicki Bluhm (vocals), Steve Adams (Bass), Dave Mulligan (Guitar), Deren Ney (Guitar), Mike Curry (drums), and Tim Bluhm (guitar and vocals) who was absent for this performance, played the main stage at World Café Live on Tuesday March 26 to an enthusiastic crowd.

Having made their Philadelphia debut at the Tin Angel last fall, this was an opportunity for the Gramblers to really stretch out in a comfortable concert setting. The band was eager to return to the northeast after its recent success at SXSW in Austin. Performing a seventeen song set of simplistically catchy numbers, Bluhm and company seemed to get stronger as the concert progressed, building momentum with an adoring audience.

A combination of late 60’s psychedelic and early 70’s rock with a touch of classic country, the Gramblers displayed similarities to the Rolling Stones, the Jefferson Airplane, the Grateful Dead and Johnny and June Carter Cash. The band was consistently tight, highlighted by intricate guitar leads from Deren Ney. Bluhm, with a charismatic stage demeanor, guided the band through a musically infectious performance.

Standout songs included the pop-infused “Keep It Loose,” a rhythmic “Go Go Go,” “Toby’s Song,” featuring some amazing slide guitar work, and the kickin’ country beat of “Santa Fe,” featuring a vocal duet by Nicki and acoustic guitarist Dave Mulligan. Bluhm pulled off a flawless performance of Linda Ronstadt’s “You’re No Good“ before concluding with the rockin’ “Burnt.”

Advertisement

Following a lengthy standing ovation, the band closed out the evening with the ballad “Kill You To Call,” showcasing the bluesy vocal abilities of Bluhm. The Gramblers left the stage visibly touched by a well-deserved Philly style reception. With a new album in the works, Nicki Bluhm and the Gramblers should deliver great things to their fans. To stay up to date with the band visit www.nickibluhm.com

About the Author

A Philadelphia based music journalist for over 30 years, Rob has interviewed, reviewed and photographed hundreds of well-known musicians and athletes. Working with almost every major music venue in the Philadelphia area, his writing has appeared in a variety of entertainment publications and newspapers. His work can frequently be found in print and on the web in the 21st Century Media newspapers. Rob resides in Phoenixville, Pa. Reach the author at (Unknown address)
.